1953 Aston Martin DB2/4 Mk I

Written by Stephen Serio

This Aston seems to have been banged around more than Drea de Matteo’s character on “The Sopranos”

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This competition-modified DB2/4 Mk I was supplied new to Lawrence & Hilton Ltd. of Blackpool, and spent much of its life in the Sussex area. A list of the car’s competition successes is highlighted by class first places at the Curborough Sprint in 1992, 1993 and 1994, the Goodwood Sprint in 1994 and 1995, and the Wiscombe Hill Climb in 1994 and 1995, among other finishes that have made it one of the most successful DB2/4 Mk Is in recent history.

Upon acquisition in 1991, a previous owner sent the DB2/4 Mk I to Jack Moss at Four Ashes Garage for a complete engine overhaul, bodywork refurbishment and general mechanical and cosmetic detailing. The interior was also re-trimmed and fitted out with new carpets. Then in 1992, the car went to Nigel Dawes at Malvern to have the bonnet restored before returning to Four Ashes to have the rear axle and differential rebuilt. A high-backed competition driver’s seat was fitted around 1994, together with full chassis-mounted competition harnesses for passenger and driver. At the same time the steering column was renewed and the brakes overhauled.

Subsequent modifications have included a special ATL safety fuel cell fitted into the standard tank location and filled from the original filler. A master “off” switch and fire extinguishers have also been installed as part of the program of creating a practical, competition-ready car with much improved performance. The project was reported as having consumed a total of $45,000 by 1996.

The car was purchased at a Sotheby’s auction in May 1996 by a client in the U.S. At the time of purchase, the car’s owner reported it as having a fully known ownership history, unusual for a car of this age. The car has since returned to the U.K., after a period of gentle use abroad.

When sold in 1996, the vehicle possessed extensive ownership, restoration and service histories, and it is hoped that these will be available at time of sale. Finished in red with black interior, the vehicle is presented in good condition in every respect.

Stephen is the president and owner of Aston Martin of New England / Lotus Motorsports Inc. in Waltham, MA, although for the most part, vintage European cars are where his heart is. His need to over-indulge in vintage European cars of the 1950s and 1960s inevitably leads to coveting one more car. Recent garage inhabitants include a Porsche 356A Speedster and 356A European coupe, Ferrari 275 GTS and 246GT, BMW 2002 and a Hudson Hornet. HIs vintage-Porsche-driving wife, Amanda, tolerates this all nicely.

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